NAMM 2017: Akai Pro's new MPC X and MPC Live take pad-based production back to its standalone roots

Both units can operate with or without a computer

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Could X hit the spot for MPC fans?

Akai Pro MPC X

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The MPC Live is the more compact and affordable of the two units.

Akai Pro MPC Live

NAMM 2017: The future of Akai's MPC line has been the subject of much debate. The classic MPCs were standalone music production units, but more recent models have been hardware/software hybrids in the vein of Native Instruments' Maschine. What this means, of course, is that they can't be used without a computer, but things are about to change with the announcement of two new MPCs: the MPC X and MPC Live.

While neither of these machines is the Windows-based MPC that was prototyped a few years ago, both models are equipped with their own processors and can work either standalone or as controllers for their companion software. In fact, the flagship MPC X has a multicore processor that's tuned to get the best out of the MPC Software 2.0 that runs on it (this can also operate as a plugin or standalone on your PC/Mac), and comes with a 10.1-inch multitouch screen and 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB pads. There are also dedicated menu buttons, a large master encoder knob and 16 touch-sensitive 360 degree assignable pots (Q-Links) with adaptive OLED displays.

The theory is that the benefits of a touch-based workflow have been married to "full-featured production functionality," and that the MPC X could become the centrepiece of your studio. To this end, there are multiple connectivity options: a 2-in/4-out MIDI interface for hooking up synths, drum machines and other gear, comprehensive audio I/O and even eight CV/Gate outputs to accommodate your modular setup.

"The most powerful MPC"

"In creating the concept for the MPC X we wanted to preserve the classic MPC feel and workflow that people love," said Dan Gill, Product Manager for Akai Professional. "But we turned the idea on its head and incorporated the best of what a modern touchscreen interface can offer. What we have now is the most powerful MPC production experience ever."

The MPC X will go on sale for £1450 in the first quarter of 2017, but if you're looking for something a little more compact and affordable, consider the battery-powerable MPC Live. This one comes with a 7-inch multitouch screen, 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads, four touch-capacitive Q-Link controls and a large, clickable master encoder knob. Again, there's multicore processing, as well as 2GB of RAM and 16GB of onboard storage (this can be expanded).

There's not quite so much connectivity here, but you still get a 2-in/2-out MIDI interface, two selectable audio inputs (RCA and balanced 1⁄4-inch jack), and six configurable 1⁄4-inch jack outputs. Like the MPC X, the MPC Live runs MPC Software 2.0, and it'll be available for £800 in the first quarter of 2017.

We'll be testing both of the new MPCs as soon as possible. Their standalone operation certainly gives them a USP in comparison to the likes of Maschine, but it remains to be seen how much of a killer feature this will be in an era when so many of us are so comfortable with having a computer at the heart of our setup. It's certainly a bold move on Akai's part, though, and could put the company right back in the pad-based production game.